“The former Labor Government’s feasibility study found that high-speed rail would deliver $2.50 for every $1 invested.”

Ms Claydon said the Turnbull Government must establish a high speed rail planning authority as a critical first step.

“The former Labor Government provided funding for a high speed rail planning authority, to start the complex task of planning the route and, most importantly, securing the land for the rail corridor,” Ms Claydon said.

“Regretfully, the Liberal Government cut the funding and continues to display a stunning lack of vision when it comes to Australia’s future infrastructure needs.”

Ms Claydon said Infrastructure Australia had stressed the urgency of securing the high speed rail corridor between Brisbane and Melbourne.